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EZScreen DIY Screen Printing Alfred Hitchcock T-Shirt
March 12th is National Alfred Hitchcock Day, and in light of this unusual but marvelous holiday, I decided to make my own custom Hitchcock t-shirt. Here is my process, starting with the artwork:
I started by converting this side profile silhouette image into black and white on Paint Shop Pro version 7 (super old, I need a more recent version!) using the "Threshold" method.
Once the image was edited, I opened it on a WordDoc, and created some text to make it more custom.
I loaded the transparency into my printer, making sure the image would print on the textured side which allows the printer ink to dry and remain permanent.
Wallah!
After I allowed the transparency to dry, I assembled the exposure board unit and EZScreen stencil for exposure.
In a dimly lit room, I peeled clear coating from EZScreen stencil.
After the silk screen stencil and transparency were put in between the clear and black board, I secured all sides with clips.
Follow this link to view complete How-To Make a Stencil instructions.
I exposed the screen print stencil in direct sunlight for 1 minute. If applicable, angle the stencil so it is perpendicular with the sun.
After exposure, I submerged the stencil in water and allowed to soak for 10 minutes.
Most of the emulsion will lift off while soaking in water, but some extra TLC will be needed to remove any excess.
Once the emulsion has been washed off and the stencil patted dry, let it cure under sunlight for 5-10 minutes (emulsion side facing up).
After the stencil has completely dried, it's ready for screen printing!
I inserted a piece of cardboard into the shirt, to prevent screen printing ink from seeping to the back. Using blue painters tape, I attached the stencil to a plastic frame.
Then adjusted the stencil on top of the shirt.
Using a wooden stick, I loaded a 4 inch squeegee with black Speedball screen printing ink.
In a downwards motion, I silk screened the EZScreen stencil with the ink, making sure I covered the entire design.
After lifting up a corner or two to make sure the ink went all the way through, I lifted the stencil off and submerged it immediately in water. (You can remove the frame before soaking in water or after).
And Wallah! A finished t-shirt! Allow the Speedball ink to air dry for at least an hour before handling the t-shirt.
